LifestyleWave goodbye to cracked heels: How rehydration with a common kitchen ingredient can help

Wave goodbye to cracked heels: How rehydration with a common kitchen ingredient can help

Dry heels need a lot of moisturising.
Dry heels need a lot of moisturising.
Images source: © Adobe Stock

11 February 2024 20:37

So, why do heels crack? The primary culprit is skin dehydration. Since our feet contain fewer sebaceous glands, it makes them prone to drying out, causing a loss in elasticity. Inappropriate footwear can exacerbate this issue - it's recommended to avoid overly tight shoes and both very high and very low heels. Another common cause of dry heels is standing still in a single position for an extended period.

Heel dryness post-winter? Try this trick

Dry, chapped heels are a frequent problem after the winter season when the skin is more likely to dry out. Alongside hydrating creams and regular exfoliation for the removal of dead skin, treating your feet to a softening bath can help. All you need is a common kitchen product - oats.

You're wondering how to rehydrate those dry heels? This trick is exceedingly simple. Fill a bowl with three cups of oats, then douse them in boiling water. Once the oats begin to soften, add enough cold water to create a diluted mixture and immerse your feet. Let them soak for 20 minutes, then rinse in tepid water, dry them and apply a moisturising cream. Repeat this process every other day until your heels feel appropriately moisturised.

Caring for dry heels: here's a foot bath to help

Cracked heels can also benefit from other home remedies. Baking soda, for instance, possesses softening properties that can assist in the recovery process. But, how do you use it? Pour warm water into a bowl and mix in two teaspoons of baking soda. Immerse your feet in this mixture for around 10 minutes. Afterward, rinse your feet in lukewarm water, dry them and apply a moisturising cream. Repeat this procedure once or twice a week.

The task of moisturising dry heels will prove even more effective if we add two tablespoons of salt to the baking soda water. Allow your feet to soak for 20 minutes in this solution. After doing so, you can also gently exfoliate to remove any dead skin.

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